Jellis Craig
With a vineyard, olive and citrus grove, Heyford, a 1908-era mansion in Melbourne’s east owned by AFL Legend Jonathan Brown and his wife Kylie, is truly one-of-a-kind. But after four years gently restoring the house and enjoying the garden’s bounties, the couple have listed the Canterbury property for sale with a price guide of $8.25 million to $8.75 million.
The sale comes as the family plans a move to the Gold Coast, where Kylie grew up, reports The Herald Sun. But the family’s relocation isn’t expected to affect Jonathan’s commitments in Melbourne, including his role as AFL commentator for Fox Footy and his appearances on Fox’s On The Couch.
In an interview with Domain, Kylie said she was “very grateful” to Heyford, which had nourished their family during a difficult period, spanning Covid-19 lockdowns and her battle against endometriosis which she documented on Instagram via @endo.runner. “I’ll never forget being in lockdown and getting up early to get the strawberries; their bright, bright red, and just being able to take a bowl outside and pick salad for our dinner.”
During their time at Heyford, the Browns sensitively restored the Arts and Crafts property, creating a brand-new ensuite bathroom but leaving heritage details including leadlight windows, strapped ceilings and grand archways intact. “I don’t like a really obvious reno,” says Kylie. “I like to be respectful to the existing house; try to match new things with old.”
Let’s take a wander through the home (originally designed by architect Herbert Black) and its surrounding garden.
Jonathan Brown is former captain of the Brisbane Lions with whom he played from 2000 until his retirement in 2014. He is a commentator for Fox Sports and previously hosted breakfast radio show Chrissie, Sam & Brownie alongside co-hosts Chrissie Swan and Sam Pang from 2017 to 2022. He currently hosts his own podcast, Browny’s Podcast. Kylie Brown is a beauty therapist and ambassador for Endometriosis Australia.
To see more of this stunning family home, visit Jellis Craig’s listing.
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